Water Heater Leaking? What You Should Do Immediately

If your water heater is leaking, it’s not something to ignore or “keep an eye on.” Even a small leak can quickly turn into water damage, mold, or a full tank failure.

A leaking water heater means water is escaping from the tank, valves, or connected plumbing, and it almost always gets worse if left alone.

Here’s how to tell what’s going on, and what to do right away.

Signs Your Hot Water Heater Is Leaking

Some water heater leaks are obvious. Others start quietly and get worse over time, especially if you neglect maintenance. Common signs include:

• Water pooling around the base of the tank
• Damp drywall or flooring near the water heater
• Rust or corrosion on the tank or fittings
• Dripping sounds when the unit is not running
• A sudden drop in hot water pressure or temperature

If you notice water coming from the bottom of the tank, that’s especially important, as it often points to a more serious issue.

Common Causes of a Leaking Water Heater

A hot water heater leak can happen for several reasons. Some are repairable. Others mean replacement is the safest option.

Loose or Damaged Plumbing Connections

Water heaters rely on multiple connections, including inlet pipes, outlet pipes, and fittings. If one loosens or corrodes, it can start leaking.

A Faulty Temperature & Pressure Relief (T&P) Valve

The T&P valve releases excess pressure from the tank. If it’s worn or failing, it may drip or discharge water.

Sediment Buildup Inside the Tank

Over time, minerals settle at the bottom of the tank. This sediment traps heat, damages the tank lining, and can eventually cause leaks.

Corrosion or Tank Failure

Once the internal tank starts rusting, leaks are often unavoidable. This is one of the most common causes of a water heater leaking from the bottom.

Immediate Steps to Take If Your Water Heater Is Leaking

If you discover your water heater is leaking, take these steps right away to limit damage.

Shut Off the Water Supply

Turn off the cold water supply valve connected to the water heater. This stops additional water from entering the tank.

Turn Off Power or Gas

• Electric water heater: turn off the breaker
• Gas water heater: set the gas control valve to “off”

This reduces the risk of overheating or further damage.

Check Where the Water Is Coming From

Look closely at the tank:

• Top or side leaks may come from fittings or valves
• Bottom leaks often indicate internal tank failure

Knowing the source helps determine whether repair is possible.

Avoid Using Hot Water

Using hot water can worsen the leak and increase pressure inside the tank.

What to Do If the Water Heater Is Leaking From the Bottom

If your water heater is leaking from the bottom, it’s usually a sign that the tank itself has failed.

In most cases:

• The internal lining has corroded
• Sediment has damaged the tank
• The leak cannot be permanently repaired

At this point, replacement is typically the safest and most cost-effective solution. Temporary fixes rarely hold and can lead to flooding if the tank ruptures.

Can You Still Use a Leaking Water Heater?

Short answer: no, you shouldn’t use a leaking water heater. Running a leaking water heater can:

• Cause structural water damage
• Lead to mold growth
• Increase the risk of sudden tank failure

If you’re unsure what’s causing the leak, it’s best to shut the system down and have it inspected by a water heater expert.

When to Call Stephens Plumbing

If your water heater is leaking, it’s time to bring in a professional when:

• You see water pooling around the base of the tank
• The water heater is leaking from the bottom
• The leak continues after shutting off the water supply
• You’re not sure whether the issue is repairable
• Your water heater is more than 8–12 years old

Some leaks can be fixed quickly by tightening a fitting or replacing a valve. Others signal internal tank failure and require replacement. The difference matters, and guessing wrong can lead to serious water damage.

The good news? Stephens Plumbing will help you figure out what to do next.

If the problem is repairable, we’ll fix it. If it’s not, we’ll walk you through replacement options that make sense for your home and budget. Contact us today!